Know and Obey the Code. It’s Your Responsibility.
While participating in snow sports there are elements of risk. Be aware of changing trail conditions which may vary due to weather, skier/snowboarder use, snowmaking, grooming, maintenance, and other activities. Various forms of marking devices are used by Smugglers’ to inform you of the presence or location of potential obstacles but are no guarantee of your safety and will not protect you from injury. It is not possible to mark all hazards, it is your responsibility to avoid all obstacles and hazards, marks or unmarked.
Your Responsibility Code
- Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
- People ahead of downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
- Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
- Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
- You must prevent runaway equipment.
- Read and obey all signs, warnings and hazard markings.
- Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
- Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
Use common sense, show curtesy to others, and anticipate hazardous situations before they arise. Your Responsibility Code was developed by the National Ski Areas association to highlight 10 fundamental points of snow sport safety.
If you need help understanding the Code, please ask Ski Patrol.
